Archive for the 'Pattern Recommendations' Category

February 21st, 2015 by Petrina

“If you don’t like the weather in New England now, just wait a few minutes.” Mark Twain

Our American-made yarns draw inspiration from cherished American landscapes. Country®, for instance, is inspired by New England’s picturesque scenery. And like New England, where the weather can change if you just wait awhile, this striped yarn creates an unexpected but stunning heathered fabric as you knit or crochet with it.

It’s super bulky which means it works up quickly and keeps you warm at the same time, especially if you’re working on a large project like the Subtle Stripes Afghan.

It’s the perfect yarn to get you through the last few weeks of bitter cold and snow. Knit up an afghan inspired by your favorite vacation towns with Kennebunk Teal or Mystic Purple or crochet a last-minute winter accessory.

February 20th, 2015 by Sarah

We can’t stop! There are just so many ways to turn a simple rectangle into a gorgeous garment. The Simple Shrug and Vegan Fur Poncho are perfect examples of that! Now we’re taking it to the next level with the Tribeca Tunic.

This top is made from two rectangles seamed together at the sides. Although the pattern is for intermediate knitters, there’s no shaping at the armholes or neck so it works up in a breeze! The front and back pieces are made up of smaller rectangular panels which a bold, geometric look that’s very trendy right now.

Made with Modern Baby®, you can see that the eye-catching contrast makes this yarn a fun choice to use for garments for children and adults alike! Plus, you’ll love the sparkly detailing done with Vanna’s Glamour®!

Design Editor Susan Haviland describes the construction of this unique piece in the video below:

February 19th, 2015 by Brandyce

It’s the middle of February, and many of us in the Northeast are still getting plenty of snow, cold, and wind – so it’s the perfect time to get out those hooks (or needles) and work on something warm and cozy.

The Flattering Cowl is a popular pattern that’s easy to make, and super snuggly because it’s made with Lion Brand’s plush Homespun® Thick & Quick® yarn. It’s definitely a gratifying project because it works up quickly; you can easily finish this cowl in one day.

You’ll love the feel of Homespun® Thick & Quick® as it keeps you nice and toasty in this super bulky cowl. Watch the video below for a tutorial that’s great for beginners. Vanessa, from the Crafty Gemini, shares tips and tricks for working on this cowl, and offers advice for creating different variations. Enjoy!

February 16th, 2015 by Ilana

The Chinese New Year is represented by a rotating cycle of twelve animals. There are years named for dragons, and others named for dogs, snakes, and even rats! This new year, which begins on February 19th, is the Year Of the Sheep! It’s the cutest animal and the yarniest animal … definite reasons to celebrate. If you’re giving a baby gift to a baby born in the next twelve months, this is the gift – try our Little Lamb Sock Critter as your first project for the new year!

Below are a few of our favorite sheep-inspired patterns for your knitting and crochet enjoyment this year!

February 15th, 2015 by Sarah

You’ll impress your friends (and yourself) when you make this Simple Shrug!

The Lion Brand® design team has developed a collection of gorgeous, uncomplicated patterns based on straightforward rectangles. The Simple Shrug is the perfect project for any crocheter who’s ready to graduate from making accessories!

This shrug can be worn in multiple ways, so it’s very versatile! Wear it over your favorite little black dress or pair it with jeans on a chilly summer night. Made with Lion Brand®‘s self-striping yarn Unique, the beautiful color changes do all of the work for you!

Design Editor Susan Haviland explains the easy construction of the Simple Shrug in the video below:

February 9th, 2015 by Sarah

When I started knitting, I made so many scarves. I was intimidated by the idea of moving on to a bigger project, so I kept on making scarves, each one more intricate than the last. If someone had told me back then that I could tackle an afghan, I probably wouldn’t have believed them … but if you’ve knit or crocheted a scarf, you can do it!

The Design department here at Lion Brand has created a collection of patterns to give knitters and crocheters of all skill levels the confidence to make an afghan, one scarf at a time!

Design Director Adina Klein explains how you can step up your scarf game by doing the Neck’s Best Thing!

February 5th, 2015 by Danielle

Valentine’s Day projects are in full-swing with the Cabled Heart Boot Cuff coming in number one for the month – are you living the dream and getting ahead of your holiday knitting and crocheting? Tell us your secret!

February 4th, 2015 by Sarah

Gorgeous garments don’t have to be complicated! The Design department at Lion Brand has created a number of stunning new patterns based on simple rectangles, and let us be the first to show you that these projects are easy for any beginner to make, plus they’re super-stylish and fun to wear.

One of these garments is the Vegan Fur Poncho made from our newest faux-fur, Pelt. We love it because it’s so elegant — it’s the perfect accessory for any winter outfit. And, since it’s made from one rectangle, this poncho is a great project for knitters of all skill levels.

Susan from our design team shows off a 360° view of this beautiful accessory! Take a look!

February 3rd, 2015 by Danielle

May your blessings outnumber
The shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.
– Irish Blessing

March is only a few weeks away, which means St. Patrick’s Day is upon us! You’re still in luck, there’s plenty o’ time to get a couple of these brand new knit and crochet projects on the hooks and needles.

February 1st, 2015 by Petrina

Homespun® is a soft, silky roving textured yarn that works up quickly and easily. From shawls to sweaters to throws, this yarn can’t be beat for softness and sheer touch-ability. With solids, heathers, and beautiful self-striping ‘painterly’ colors, Homespun® comes in gorgeous shades you’ll love.

With names like Clouds, Herb Garden, Parfait, Sundae Stripes, Abalone, Fiesta, and Mixed Berries it’s hard to choose just one. Best of all for the entire month of February you can purchase Homespun® for 20% off the original price!